What Questions Do You Have?

Divorce is what is often called the most important financial decision you will ever make with many questions. If you don't see your question and answer here, feel free schedule a free consultation.

• What is a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst (CDFA®)?

CDFAs have a minimum of three years work experience in finance and must complete a rigorous four module program and pass an exam designed by the Institute of Divorce Financial Analysts (IDFA). The exam covers various topics including: divorce procedures and laws, divorce specific financial analysis, asset valuations, alimony, tax issues and much more. CDFAs are experts in financial aspects relating to divorce and the impacts on your financial future. As a CDFA® I work with my client(s) and their attorneys, as a mediator and with couples using a collaborative divorce process. My viewpoint is strictly financial and adds value to the work of an attorney.

• I’m working with a divorce attorney, do I also need the guidance of a CDFA®?

I began working with individuals who were going through a divorce in the mid-2000s. As I began to get more and more referrals from local attorneys, I began to see some trends around financial settlements, many of which did not turn out well for the client. I believe that this stemmed from the fact that I would often be asked to assist with a case after the settlement had already been decided, or the Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO) was already drafted. I were brought into the case towards the end rather than from the start. I can work with you and your attorney to analyze complex financial documents, trusts, Employee Stock Option Plans and closely held businesses. I use specialized software and processes specific to financial planning and divorce.

• How do you get compensated?

Initial consultations are at no charge. If and when, we both decide that this would be a good fit, we would charge an hourly fee for our service. I charge an hourly fee of $275 an hour for collaborative divorce and litigated divorce. I use a fee schedule for mediation which is based on the complexity of the case.

• What is a QDRO? Do I need one?

QDRO stands for “Qualified Domestic Relations Order”. A QDRO is a court order used to divide specific types of retirement plans. The division of assets after a divorce does not always include the split of retirement plans. A QDRO is needed in order to equitably divide these assets.

• Will you work with the couple together?

As a CDFA®, I can act in a neutral capacity to assist both parties in reaching an amicable settlement through a mediated process. However, I do not provide legal advice and recommend that you also seek independent legal counsel. I also work with both parties as a financial neutral in collaborative divorce. I will only work with one party in a litigated case.